Tombs, tours & high tea at Auckland Heritage Festival 2015

Cycle the historic ‘hoods in your Sunday best, spend quiet time among the forgotten souls in the city’s cemeteries, take a rare glimpse inside the Roman Catholic Bishop’s palace or while away an afternoon at a high tea dance; these are just some of the offerings available at this year’s Auckland Heritage Festival.

Thanks to the enthusiasm and energy of hundreds of volunteers and local organisations, more than 180 free and low-cost events will be showcasing our diverse heritage across the region from 26 September to 11 October.

Mayor Len Brown says Auckland is marking some significant anniversaries this year and is encouraging Aucklanders to discover their heritage during the festival.

“In the year that Auckland marks its 175th anniversary, the centenary of Gallipoli and five years since the unification of Auckland, there’s no better time for Aucklanders to check out what the Heritage Festival has on offer, from Tales of Tāmaki at the Museum to a Soldiers’ Walk at Waikumete Cemetery and a documentary on the start of the restoration of the St James Theatre.”

Chair of Auckland Council’s Heritage Advisory Panel, Cllr Mike Lee, says “This year’s festival is about the stories of Aucklanders who have shaped Tāmaki Makaurau.

“The growing popularity of the festival in recent years underscores the value Aucklanders place on their heritage, especially their built heritage. Whatever the theme, Heritage Festival events are well worth attending.”

Events in the festival include heritage walks, talks and tours, special events and exhibitions. They’re hosted by a range of knowledge specialists including architects, musicians, mana whenua, historians, scientists and filmmakers.

“Take some time with family and friends, have some fun and discover what’s so special about our city,” says Cllr Lee. “Whether you want to explore your local area or go somewhere new, there’s plenty of for all to enjoy.”

Auckland Heritage Festival is an annual event delivered by Auckland Council. For full programme and event details, visit heritagefestival.co.nz.

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